The Basics of Sunscreen

Wednesday, April 20, 2016

The sun, it seems like such a harmless ray of sunshine. However, the sun exudes ultraviolet rays (UV) which is beneficial yet harmful. Not saying that one should stay clear of the sun at all times. It is actually quite good to get out and get some fresh air and sun. Nonetheless, it is when we are outside for too long that the sun's rays can start to take its effects.

Harmful Effects of the Sun's UV Rays:

Ages skin

Causes skin cancer

Causes sunburn

Damages immune system

Damages eyes

Damages the DNA of skin cells

Main types of UV rays:

UVA

This type of ray is the most damaging ray to our skin, such as wrinkles. This is the ray that aids in aging.

UVB

This type of ray is the main ray that causes sunburns. This is also the ray to cause most skin cancers.

Now when choosing a sunscreen, pick a sunscreen that is broad-spectrum. This means that it will protect against most of the UV spectrum (UVA and UVB).

Myth or Fact?

If it is cloudy I do not need to use sunscreen.

This is a myth. Even if the sky is filled with clouds, this does not mean that the sun's rays do not peek through.

It is a fact that some types of clouds reflect UV and increases UV exposure. The important thing to remember is that even on cloudy days UV rays can get through.Chemical Sunscreen

How does it work?

Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing the sun's rays like a sponge then changing the UV rays into heat and then releasing that heat from the skin.

Chemical Sunscreen vs. Physical Sunscreen
There is a huge debate on which one protects better. Both chemical and physical do a great job at defending your skin against UV rays. It comes down to which one works better on your skin.

Frequently Asked Question

Sunscreen needs to be reapplied throughout the day, what about days I have a full face of makeup on. How do I reapply sunscreen to my glammed up face without ruining my makeup?

First of all, no need to worry. There are powders that contain SPF. So you can retouch your makeup and reapply sunscreen with one multitasking product. There are also now sunscreen face mists. So reapply sunscreen to your beautiful faces with one of these two genius products.

Thank you so much for reading this post! I hope you gained some new valuable information. I know it is said often, but do not forget to wear sunscreen.